Cost of Living in Palatine, IL
Population 66,548 · Illinois · Data vintage 2023
(100 = US avg)
Most of Palatine's cost indicators track within a reasonable band of national figures, with median household incomes near $95,950 — a more representative starting point for relocation math than the headline-expensive or headline-cheap cities on either tail.
Palatine sits roughly 15 miles east of Elgin — close enough that regional housing and labor patterns are shaped largely by the larger market. Median home values run roughly 38% higher than Elgin's $252,000.
Cost Overview
Scale: 100 = US national average. Green < 90, Red > 110.
About the Cost of Living in Palatine
The median home value in Palatine is $347,900 — 14% above the national median of $305,000. Median rent runs $1,467/month, 12% higher than the national median of $1,314/month. The median household income of $95,950/year is 29% higher than the US median of $74,580. The local unemployment rate is 4.4%, below the national average of 4.8%. Illinois's top state income tax rate is 5.0% and the combined sales tax is 8.7%. Overall, Palatine has a cost of living index of 113 versus the US average of 100, meaning it is 13% more expensive.
🏠 Housing
HUD Fair Market Rents by Bedroom
💰 Estimated Monthly Budget
Estimates based on median data and national averages. Actual costs vary.
🛒 Food & Groceries
National BLS average prices (2023). Local prices may vary.
🚗 Transportation
Commute Mode
⚡ Utilities
📋 Taxes
💼 Income & Employment
🎓 Education
👥 Demographics
💨 Air Quality
EPA AQS 2023 — county-level monitoring data
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Palatine, IL?
Palatine has a cost index of 113 (100 = national average). It is 13% above the national average.
What is average rent in Palatine, IL?
The median gross rent in Palatine is $1,467 per month based on 2023 Census data.
What is the average home price in Palatine?
The median home value in Palatine is $347,900 according to Zillow and Census data.
What is the median income in Palatine?
The median household income in Palatine is $95,950 per year (2023 ACS 5-year estimates).
What is the sales tax in Palatine, IL?
The combined state and local sales tax rate in Palatine is 8.7%. The Illinois state income tax top rate is 5.0%.
Is Palatine, IL affordable?
Palatine is above average in cost of living, with an index of 113 — about 13% higher than the national average.
Palatine at a Glance
- Population
- 66,548
- Median Income
- $95,950
- Home Value
- $347,900
- Median Rent
- $1,467/mo
- Unemployment
- 4.4%
- Sales Tax
- 8.7%
Nearby Cities
Explore county-level cost of living data
Illinois Rankings
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